Mark Roberts has been inspired by the form of Leon Legge as the defenders continue to help Cambridge United haul themselves up the Sky Bet League Two table.

Roberts has taken his opportunity with both hands since being recalled to the team by manager Shaun Derry a month ago.

After not starting any of the U’s first 11 matches this season, he has been in the line-up for their last six league fixtures and helped them amass 13 points in the process.

Roberts has produced man-of-the-match performances in the last two matches – he was particularly impressive in last weekend’s 2-1 win at Exeter – and he is delighted to have fans’ favourite Legge alongside him in the heat of battle.

“Leggey is an inspirational character. He plays in that vein and lives the character he is,” said Roberts.

“The fans have obviously picked up on that and he’s become a firm favourite. Full credit to him for that.

“I’ve played with people before that have been similar to that and it’s about finding a balance with that player to make sure you complement one and other.

“I’ve played with centre-halves like Jon Ashton at Stevenage and (Nathan) Pond at Fleetwood, people who put themselves and their bodies on the line.

“You sort of bounce off that and get inspired by that. If you’ve got those types of characters in the team it can only be a good thing.”

Despite United’s upturn in fortunes since Roberts returned to the team, clean sheets have remained hard to come by.

Only Yeovil, who the centre-back scored the winner against, have failed to score against them in their last nine matches in all competitions.

But goalkeeper Will Norris has been in fine form and Roberts always thought he could make a name for himself once given his chance.

“Will’s an exceptional young goalkeeper,” said Roberts.

“From the first moment I came to the club I could recognise that and identified him as someone who had a lot of talent.

“He also has the work rate and the attitude to match that, and I think that’s the most impressive thing about him.

“He’s level headed, he’s a really, really good kid and I’m sure he’s got a great future in the game.”